Williams Primary School student-created mural vies for national people’s choice Paint Australia Beautiful gong

A Wheatbelt primary school is vying for the top spot nationally in Paint Australia Beautiful’s Schools Mural Competition after being named the State winner for its student-created artwork. Williams Primary School was chosen to represent WA in the competition’s national people’s choice award, competing against five other States and Territories. The winner to be announced on November 5. The primary school was revealed to be the State winner on June 30 by Keep Australia Beautiful for their mural blueprint created in collaboration with local artist Georgina Patterson. Students got their pick of paint and supplies when receiving $750 worth of Haymes Paints to complete their winning art piece. As final voting gets under way, Williams students and teachers are urging the State to get behind them and post their vote before the closing date on October 31 at 12pm. Brought to life by Years 5 and 6 students, the design features Dryandra Woodland’s unique wildlife and native flora, including mammals, birds and wildflowers observed by the students during an excursion. Each element reimagined in the mural captures the region’s biodiversity and highlights the importance of preserving and protecting it for future generations. Williams PS teacher Kristy Medlen said the students were inspired by their Dryandra trip. “Williams Primary sits near Dryandra Woodland, which is home to some of Australia’s most vulnerable species like numbats, woylies and chuditch,” she said. “Many were sketched by students during excursions and now feature in our mural. “It’s a beautiful celebration of the biodiversity that makes our region so special.” The mural was officially unveiled on October 17 in the company of special guests from Keep Australia Beautiful. KAB council chair Elizabeth Carr said all the students involved in this year’s competition should be very proud of their creations. “The Williams Primary School mural is such a beautiful tribute to the unique biodiversity of the Dryandra Woodland and the cultural significance it holds for the Wiilman people,” she said. “By showcasing threatened species like the numbat alongside other native animals and wildflowers, the students have captured both the wonder and responsibility of caring for this precious environment. “Their artwork reminds us that protecting these species and habitats is not only vital for today, but for generations to come. “We are so proud of their thoughtfulness and talent.” To vote, visit the Keep Australia Beautiful Facebook page, facebook.com/keepaustraliabeautiful, and click ‘like’ on the mural of your choice. The winner will be announced on the Keep Australia Beautiful Facebook page and Paint Australia Beautiful website.